Manchester City's manager Expresses Remorse Over Broadcast Crew Altercation Following Loss to Newcastle

Pep Guardiola has admitted experiencing "embarrassment" after an exchange with a TV crew member subsequent to Manchester City's loss at Newcastle this past weekend.

At full time, an emotional Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and engaged in intense talks with the referee, Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, and also touched the headphones of the camera operator.

"I apologised," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. I don’t like it. I immediately apologized to the cameraman. That's just me. After 1,000 games I’m not a perfect person, errors happen."

"One thing is certain, I defend any team and my club, that’s for sure. The reason why I want to defend my team is clear – because from my experience to clinch the title we have to do 100 points, high nineties, otherwise we don’t win it."

Team Standing and Guardiola's Assessment

City are third and trail leaders Arsenal by seven points after what was their fourth league defeat of the season. "Four defeats in twelve matches means we must do better," Guardiola admitted. "Technically, we can to win everything."

When questioned about a potential quadruple could be achieved, he responded: "As a seasoned reporter, did you hear my talk about the quadruple last winter when we won the quadruple? No."

Interaction with Guimarães

On the subject of his talk with Guimarães, Guardiola said: "We have known Bruno a long time and post-match, even at the Etihad, we converse. Our paths always cross and I always have a good relationship. I enjoy it. I’m an emotional guy, I like discussing and gesticulate."

Guardiola would not be concerned should a rival coach addressed his squad right after the final whistle. "Not if it's respectful as I do, it's fine," he noted, before referencing Barrott. "The referee was involved throughout the match, he was involved. My God, very much so."

Controversial Decisions

The team felt aggrieved that the officials denied a spot-kick for a Fabian Schär challenge on Phil Foden, and doubted if Guimarães was offside when Harvey Barnes scored the decisive strike. Subsequent images indicate the Brazilian was onside.

Upcoming Milestone

Guardiola will take charge of his 100th Champions League game versus Leverkusen on Tuesday. "It’s quite good, showing we compete we have been there," he commented.

City have 10 points from four matches of the league phase, and Leverkusen hold five.

Matthew Lynn
Matthew Lynn

Urban planner and writer passionate about sustainable city design and community-focused development projects.